20 of the Hottest White Tattoo Designs

It’s no secret that there is an abundance of overly trendy, clichéd designs in the world of tattoo art. If you’re seeking a design that you’re unlikely to see tatted on several other people as you navigate through your daily life, consider a white ink tattoo.

While the concept is a unique one, the subtle nature of the white tattoo also makes it the perfect choice for those who may have reservations about getting inked. The lighter your skin, the more subdued the appearance of your chosen design will be, making it a fantastic way to ease into the world of ink masters. Although it will generally glow when placed under an ultraviolet light, this is only something to consider if you frequent hot spots that use black lights and strobes.

The only downside to a white tattoo is the fact that it fades more easily than its colored counterparts. But in our opinion, having to get a touch-up every now and then is a small price to pay for a tattoo that’s truly original.

We scoured the Web for the twenty hottest white tattoo designs to inspire you to try something innovative and new when getting your next piece of ink:

This tiny bird design proves that subtle can also be sexy. Barely visible even when wearing the most revealing tops, it’s otherwise kept secret between the wearer and those with whom she is intimate.

Deeply personal tattoos are even more poignant when etched into the skin with white ink. Only readable upon close examination, this tattoo is the exact replica of a note written by a parent to the inked individual.

Speaking of personal tattoos, there’s nothing more intimate than the bond of marriage. White ink is a subtle way to pay homage to the one you love with matching wedding ring tattoos.

This tattoo captures the intricacy of henna art in a permanent tattoo. As a person tans throughout the summer, the tattoo becomes even more prominent against the skin.

White ink makes it seem as though this mandala tattoo has actually been carved rather than inked into the skin’s surface. When looking to achieve such an effect, make sure to work with a tattoo artist who has lots of experience with white ink.

Unfortunately, tattoos are frowned upon in many professional environments, which is certainly a predicament for those who proudly rock full-sleeve designs. Due to its muted appearance, this white sleeve tattoo is less likely to be banned at the office, saving you from having to wear long sleeves even when the A/C unit is broken at your office!

Celebrate natural simplicity with this feminine floral tattoo, which is designed entirely in white ink and prominently placed on the foot.

If you’re torn between white ink and a colorful design, this white and red floral tattoo is the ideal selection for you. Simply outlined in red, the addition of color highlights the white design and makes it pop against the skin.

White ink creates a textured appearance on the skin that tattoos with strong pigmentation simply can’t achieve. While this feather would certainly look great in color, white ink creates the illusion that it has been sewn onto the skin’s surface.

While most choose white ink based on its appearance, the color of your tattoo can also play into its meaning. The combination of white and black ink in this design correlates directly to its deeper significance.

Sometimes we all need a little reminder throughout the day that there’s a reason to push on, despite any challenges we may face. While others may not even notice it, the person who has this tattoo inked on his hand will get the pick-me-up he needs every time he glances down.

Large designs, like this one that lines the torso, are extremely dramatic when tatted in bold pigments. The white outline presents this “wings and stars” design in a more subtle way, making it ideal for tattoo virgins.

Are you looking for a little bit of ink, but you aren’t sure what to choose as a design? These white ink starbursts, tattooed onto the fingers, are a simple way to ease into the tattoo world. Free of a deep and meaningful significance, this design is also likely to be recognized only by those who closely examine your hand.

If you aren’t already set on snagging some white ink, this fact will seal the deal: While white tattoos are light and easily missed in regular light, ultraviolet lights can cause them to glow! Because jellyfish appear to “light up” in certain environments, it seems appropriate to tat one onto the skin in white ink that will also glow.

This tattoo pays tribute to the acclaimed Carson McCullers novel of the same name. While a tattoo featuring text can seem a bit overbearing when inked in black, white ink gives it an inconspicuous appearance.

We don’t mean to sound judgmental, but tattoos placed on your noggin usually come across as weird and just plain creepy. However, if you really want some ink on your cranium, the best way to do it is with white ink due to the understated effect it creates.

We think this dainty white anchor tattoo would look fantastic against fingernails slicked in a navy shade, creating a truly nautical look.

This slogan tattoo is already inconspicuous with its placement, but the fact that it’s inked in white makes it even more discreet in nature.

It seems only fitting that a design representing one’s lifeline would appear as though it has been etched into the skin.

This spinal design featuring the phases of the moon is as lovely as it is lunar. The contrast between the white hue and natural skin tone is soft and romantic.